Politicians hail Odeon hotel refusal

Councillors' decision to block the part demolition of Edinburgh's historic former Odeon cinema has been welcomed by parliamentarians.

By The Newsroom

Published 9th Jun 2011, 12:45 BST

Updated 10th Jun 2011, 12:06 BST

Edinburgh East Labour MP Sheila Gilmore praised the planning committee's rejection of an application by Duddingston House Properties (DHP) for a hotel on the site.

She said: "Part of Edinburgh's heritage has again been saved, thanks to a long-running, hard-fought campaign by the local community.

"Edinburgh Council now has to ensure that DHP keep the cinema in good condition and find a way to resolve this long-running issue."

Edinburgh Central SNP MSP Marco Biagi has tabled a motion in the Scottish Parliament, welcoming the planning decision, praising the local campaigners and looking forward to the Odeon's restoration "at the soonest possible opportunity".